What other treatments are available for teeth grinding?
Stress management techniques
The first solution to try for teeth grinding is to reduce your stress levels and address any underlying anxieties that could be triggering the condition – although this can feel easier said than done! Some good things to try include relaxation and breathing exercises before going to sleep; keeping technology, including your phone, out of your bedroom to help your mind unwind; meditative activities such as yoga in the evening; and avoiding caffeine and alcohol pre-bed.
Mouthguards
Wearing a mouthguard at night to protect your teeth can be especially helpful if you are experiencing (or are worried about) tooth damage from grinding. The nightguards are worn during sleep to form a physical barrier between your upper and lower teeth, which prevents them being able to crunch against each other. They can take a little getting used to at first, but you can buy them yourself, or get one fitted by your dentist for the most comfortable, personalised fit.
Dental realignment
For underlying dental issues, such as misaligned teeth, the best course of action is dental treatment via an accredited dentist or orthodontist. This may involve orthodontic procedures such as braces, or teeth restorations – which can all be discussed during your appointment. Improving alignment in this way can reduce the strain on your jaw muscles, decreasing your risk of teeth grinding, while also improving overall jaw and teeth appearance should that also be something you want.
Acupuncture
Facial acupuncture may also prove valuable for reducing the side effects of grinding, by targeting the tension it can cause (although it won’t stop you doing it in the first place). Specially placed acupuncture needles can be used along the jawline itself to clear muscle knots in the area, as well as around the temples and forehead to target related tension headaches if you struggle with them.
Cognitive therapy
If you are struggling with chronic anxiety which is contributing to your teeth grinding, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may be the most effective treatment to try. This type of therapy helps you identify and modify the behaviours or feelings that are leading to grinding, so you can develop healthier coping mechanisms, leading to broader health benefits.
Medication
Medication is available that could help with grinding but there are often drawbacks to taking this approach. When you have tried all other options without much success, you may be prescribed muscle relaxants to ease tension in your face, although these do come with side effects. Equally, antidepressants may help the underlying anxieties causing your bruxism, but may also contribute towards the behaviour in some individuals.
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